Dorchester Circular via Hardy's Cottage

A circular walk

7
MI
Sea Arches in Britain: Durdle Door
Sea Arches in Britain: Durdle Door by CoasterMadMatt

Thomas Hardy country east of Dorchester — his thatched birthplace cottage and the woodland and heathland of Thorncombe Wood.

Hardy's Cottage: The thatched cottage birthplace of writer Thomas Hardy, set within Thorncombe Wood nature reserve and cared for by the National Trust (National Trust; 1h to visit).

Thorncombe Wood: A mixed woodland nature reserve surrounding Hardy's Cottage with waymarked trails and heathland.

Ramparts and ditches /2
Ramparts and ditches /2 by FlickrDelusions

Lunch: The Under the Greenwood Tree cafe at the Hardy's Cottage visitor centre; pubs and cafes in Dorchester.

Warnings: Hardy's Cottage can only be visited on a guided tour; check National Trust opening arrangements before setting out.

Maiden Castle
Maiden Castle by lcfcian1
Dorchester from The Keep
Dorchester from The Keep by Chris Belsten

Credits

Walk details: Visit Dorset (tips, photos and local insights).

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